Apparatus to protect a radon fan from mechanical failure due to damage from falling objects from within the radon mitigation system

ABSTRACT

This apparatus protects a radon fan from damage due to falling water, ice, critters and debris and is installed above the radon fan and protects the fan in several ways. 
     It is installed just above the radon fan, thus taking advantage of warm “Earth Temperature” air to reduce ice build-up. 
     Its screen replaces the critter screen often installed at the top of the exhaust pipe where ice is formed. The screen additionally prevents ice and debris from falling into the fan. 
     The water bypass catches back-flowing water and directs it around the fan. 
     The access port serves as an opening for testing, observations and cleaning of any debris that is collected by the screen and the access port is sealed with a removable plug. This apparatus protects and extends the life of a radon fan and is made part of the radon mitigation system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

1. 61/397,142. Dated: Jun. 8, 2010

2. 61/401,438. Dated: Aug. 13, 2010

3. 61/459,188. Dated: Dec. 9, 2010

4. 61/461,132. dated: Jan. 14, 2011

OTHER REFERENCES

A. U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 Weaver May 14, 2001

B. New Jersey Dept. of Environmental Protection, NJDEP Responses toVapor Mitigation System Questions, Updated 10 May 2010.

C. Suncourt Inc. Radon Fan Installation Instructions

D. “Draining Water Past Radon Fan Motors Installed Outside”, by BillBrodhead of 2844 Slifer Valley Rd., Riegelsville, Pa.

E. Radon Today, Published by: RadonAway and AccuStar Labs, WinterIssue—2008, Title: Condensation Bypass.

F. Radon Today, Published by: RadonAway and AccuStar, Winter-SpringIssue—2005, Title: Condensation II

G. Radon Today, Published by: RadonAway and AccuStar, Summer Issue—2005,Title: Condensation III

H. Radon Today, Published by: RadonAway and AccuStar, Fall Issue—2004,Title: Condensation

I. Radon Today, Published by; RadonAway and AccuStar, Spring Issue—2003,Title: Mitigation System Winter Freeze-ups.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

This invention was not Federally sponsored.

BACKGROUND

Radon is a cancer-causing, radioactive gas that has been found in homesall over the United States. Radon typically moves up through the groundto the air above and into a home through cracks and other holes in thefoundation. You cannot see, smell, or taste radon.

Sub-slab depressurization is the most common radon mitigation techniquewhich requires several installation steps.

The radon mitigation system is a continuous piping system beginningunder a house concrete basement slab, and terminating outside and abovethe house. An in-line radon fan is installed in the piping system todraw the radon laced air from under the basement concrete slab to theoutside and above the house.

The radon-laced air is pulled from under the basement concrete floorslab by the radon fan and pushed up the exhaust pipe and dispersedharmlessly into the environment.

The radon-laced air at earth temperature of about 50 degrees Fahrenheitwith a high degree of moisture content. This produces air with highhumidity content being vented through the radon mitigation system.

Radon mitigation protocol requires that radon mitigation systems beoperational continuously. The radon mitigation system continues tooperate during warm periods of the year and winter freezing periods ofthe year.

During warmer periods, the humid air will turn to condensate and fallback into the radon fan in the form of water which causes damage to theradon fan.

Freezing temperatures in the environment during the winter causescondensate to turn to ice in the radon mitigation system exhaust pipe.

As more moist warm air is pumped into the exhaust pipe, ice continues tobuild and restrict air movement in the upper portion of the exhaustpipe. As the exhaust pipe becomes blocked with ice, the radon mitigationsystem becomes inoperative. During warmer periods the ice breaks apartfrom the exhaust pipe and falls into the radon fan, causing fan damage.It is common for winter nights to freeze and winter days to thaw,resulting in many freeze-thaw cycles during a winter season.

Adding to the ice build-up problem is the critter and debris screen-cap,which is often installed at the top end of the exhaust pipe where thehumid air is exposed to the freezing temperature of the environment. Thescreen-cap, installed at the top of the exhaust pipe is directly exposedto freezing temperatures, thus the screen compounds the ice build-upproblem as it catches moisture from the air passes through the screenand increases ice build-up. The ice will partially melt, and pieces willbreak off and drop down into the radon fan, causing damage.

The damage to the radon fan from falling ice is a health and economicproblem because when the radon fan is not operating, radon is not beingremoved from the house. Therefore it is desirable to provide anapparatus that will prevent ice, water, critters and debris fromentering the radon fan, and continue to allow maximum air passagethrough the radon mitigation system. It would also be desirable toprovide a means for maintenance and system testing of the radonmitigation system.

This embodiment relates to radon mitigation systems, specifically to animproved separator apparatus as part of the radon system. Thisembodiment protects a radon fan from damage resulting from falling ice,debris, critters and water.

This embodiment would have a means to replace the traditional screen capat the top of the exhaust pipe, resulting in clear exit pipe opening.

This embodiment would have a means of preventing falling ice, debris,critters and water from falling into a radon fan of a radon mitigationsystem.

This embodiment would have a means to access and clean-out debris andcritters that became suspended within the embodiment.

This embodiment would have a means to catch falling water and channel itout and around the radon fan housing.

This embodiment would have a means to return the water to the radonmitigation system down-stream of the radon fan.

It is also desirable to locate the embodiment up-stream and adjacent tothe radon fan.

This embodiment would have a means to allow access for radon mitigationsystem annalists within the embodiment.

This embodiment would install quickly and easily to the radon mitigationsystem and become part of the radon mitigation system.

PRIOR ART

Currently, a radon fan can be somewhat protected from returning waterwith a condensate bypass apparatus, U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 issued toWeaver, Mar. 4, 2003.

However, U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means to eliminatethe critter screen at the top of the exhaust pipe which contributes toundesirable ice build-up.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means to stop ice or crittersor debris from falling into the radon fan.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means for an access port toallow cleaning, inspections or maintenance.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means for an access portclosure device, such as a plug.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means for an access portclosure device, such as a plug to be integral with a drain tube adapter.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means for an elbow or angleshaped housing.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 claim 1 limits the condensate trap to aconically-shaped sloping outer surface configuration.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 states in claim 4 that an exhaust fan apparatuscomprising a housing having an exhaust port.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 states in claim 4 that the exhaust conduit iscoupled to said exhaust port

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 states in claim 4 that a condensate trap locatedwithin said exhaust conduit.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 claim number 5 states that the condensate trapis integral with said housing of said exhaust fan apparatus.

SUMMARY

This present invention comprises a radon mitigation system for removingradon-laced air from occupied areas of a building, including a means forpreventing falling debris, critters, ice and water from entering a radonfan of a radon mitigation system.

The separator housing of the present invention comprises of gutters,screens, access port, access port plugs, drain ports, drain tubeadapters, drain tube and support devices.

These and other features and advantages of the present invention, andthe manner of attaining them, will be more apparent and betterunderstood by reference to the following descriptions of embodiments ofthe invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings andwith the claims.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   1. Separator apparatus.-   1 a. Separator housing-   2. Gutter, elliptical cone-   2 a. Gutter, semi curved-   2 b. Gutter, flattened-   3. Screen, flat design-   3 a. Screen, domed design-   4. Support screws-   5. Drain tube adapter-   6. Drain tube-   7. Drain tube adapter-   8. Drain hose insulation-   9. Sealant-   11. Slip connector-   12. Access port plug-   12 a. Connector port plug-   13. Trough screw-   14. Trough base.-   15. Trough interior side wall.-   19. Trough channel.-   20. Test port-   21. Access port threads-   22. Access port plug threads-   23. Collection area above screen-   24. Critter screen cap.-   25. Access port, to housing-   25 a. Access port, to connector-   26. Drain port, to plug-   26 a. Drain port, to housing-   100. Radon fan.-   110. Flexible fan coupling.-   120. Flexible fan coupling.-   130. Pipe elbow.-   140. Suction pipe.-   150. Pipe elbow-   160. Exhaust pipe.-   170. Support bracket.-   180. Building exterior wall.-   200. Radon mitigation system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 Shows overall view of radon mitigation system according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 Shows side view of elliptical cone shaped gutter according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 3 Shows bottom view of elliptical cone shaped gutter and flatscreen according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 Shows front view of elliptical cone shaped gutter according tothe present invention.

FIG. 5 Shows rear view of elliptical cone shaped gutter and flat screenaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 6 Shows top view of elliptical cone shaped gutter and flat screenaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 7 Shows side view of separator housing, screen, gutter, drain tubeadapter, and sealant according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows a side view of separator housing, gutter, screen, supportscrews, drain tube adapter, and sealant according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 Shows front view of separator housing, screen and drain tubeadapter according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 Shows side view of separator apparatus according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 11 Shows a side view of elliptical cone shaped gutter and domedscreen according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 Shows bottom view of elliptical cone shaped gutter and domedscreen according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 Shows front view of elliptical cone shaped gutter and domedscreen according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 Shows rear view of elliptical cone shaped gutter and domedscreen according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 Shows front view of domed gutter and a domed screen according tothe present invention.

FIG. 16 Shows top view of domed gutter and domed screen according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 17 Shows side view of domed gutter and domed screen according tothe present invention.

FIG. 18 Shows side view of radon mitigation system according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 19 Shows side view of separator housing according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 20 Shows cross sectional view of embodiments of separator housingaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 21 Shows cross sectional view of another embodiment of separatorhousing according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 Shows prospective view of embodiments according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 23 Shows cross section view of drain port plug screwed intoconnector according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 Shows cross-section view of drain tube adapter screwed intodrain port plug and drain port plug screwed into separator housingaccording to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention is best described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1)Shows a overall side view of a radon mitigation system (200) comprisingseparator apparatus (1), hollow suction pipe (140), hollow suction pipeelbow (130), hollow flexible suction fan coupling (120), radon fan(100),hollow flexible exhaust fan coupling (110), hollow exhaust pipeelbow (150), hollow exhaust pipe (160), exhaust pipe support (170),building exterior wall (180), exhaust screen cap (24).

Separator housing (1 a) comprising, gutter (2), hollow receiving draintube adapter (5), hollow drain tube (6), hollow terminating drain tubeadapter (7), drain tube insulation (8).

I contemplate that the drain tube adapter (5) of this embodiment be madeof plastic, but other materials are also suitable.

Suction pipe (140) comprises a pipe from below basement floor up-streamto elbow fitting (130). Elbow (130) engages pipe (140) down-stream andengages coupling (120) up-stream. Coupling (120) engages elbow (130)down-stream and engages radon fan (100) up-stream. Pipe (140), elbow(130) and coupling (120) forms a continuing hollow, substantiallyairtight channel from below basement slab to radon fan (100).

Radon fan (100) engages coupling (120) down-stream and engages couplingfitting (110) up-stream. Radon fan (100) is an exhaust fan well known inthe radon mitigation industry. Coupling (110) engages radon fan (100)down-stream and engages housing (1 a) up-stream. Housing (1 a) engagescoupling (110) down-stream and engages elbow (150) up-stream.

Elbow (150) engages housing (la) down-stream and engages pipe (160)up-stream. Pipe (160) engages elbow fitting (150) down-stream andengages cap (24) up-stream. Cap (24) engages pipe (160) down-stream andterminates up-stream. Coupling (110), housing (1 a), elbow (150), pipe(160) and cap (24) forms a continuing hollow, substantially airtightchannel from radon fan (100) to exit through cap (24). Support (170)engages pipe (160) and engages wall (180).

I contemplate that the fittings and pipe of this embodiment be made ofPolyvinyl Chloride (PVC), but other materials are also suitable.

I contemplate that the fittings and pipe are of 4″ diameter, but othersizes are also suitable.

FIG 1. Housing (1 a) of this embodiment comprises gutter (2), adapter(5), insulation (8), tube (6), and adapter (7).

All components down-stream of radon fan (100), including pipe (140),elbow (130), coupling (120), comprise the “suction side” of the radonmitigation system.

All components up-stream of radon fan (100), including coupling (110),housing (1 a), elbow (150), pipe (160), support (170), cap (24) comprisethe “exhaust side” of the radon mitigation system.

Cap (24) is a metal screen, plastic housing device sized to fit ontopipe (160) to prevent critters and debris from entering radon mitigationsystem (200).

I contemplate that pipe (140), elbow (130), housing (1 a), elbow (150),pipe (160) are pipes and fittings manufactured of Polyvinyl Chloride(PVC) and are well known in the plumbing trade. All male and female slipconnection fittings are mated using PVC primer and PVC solvent cement.

I contemplate that coupling (110) and coupling (120) are manufactured offlexible elastomeric compounds with stainless steel band clamps forleak-proof seals and are well known in the plumbing trade

Radon mitigation system (200) is shown in FIGS. 1, 10, 18, 19.

Separator (1) is a component of system (200) FIG. 1

Housing (1 a) is an embodiment of separator (1) is shown in FIGS. 1, 10.

Housing (1 a) is shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 9, 19, 20, 21, 22.

Housing (1 a) comprises a hollow plumbing elbow, engages coupling (110)and elbow (150).

I contemplate that the housing (1 a) of this embodiment be made of ahollow plumbing Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) elbow and angled to 90 degreesor 45 degrees to engage standard PVC pipe and fittings common to theplumbing industry, but other materials are also suitable.

FIG. 2 shows a side view of an embodiment of gutter (2) shown in FIG. 1.

I contemplate that the gutter (2) of this embodiment be made of acorrosion-resistant material, such as aluminum or a plastic, but othermaterials are also suitable.

FIG. 3 Shows a below view of the gutter (2) engaged with screen (3). Inthis embodiment gutter (2) is placed below the screen (3). In thisembodiment gutter (2) supports screen (3). In this embodiment gutter (2)is attached to screen (3).

Gutter (2) (2 a) and screen (3), (3 a), (3 b) are bonded to housing (1a) with waterproof sealant (9) FIG. 7.

FIG. 4 Shows front view of gutter (2).

FIG. 5 shows a rear view of gutter (2) engaged with screen (3) abovegutter (2).

FIG. 6 Shows a below view of gutter (2) as a base support for screen(3). I contemplate that the screen (3) be made of stainless steel meshand 0.50 inch openings, but other materials and other screen sizes arealso suitable.

FIG. 7 shows a side view of housing (1 a), gutter (2), screen (3),adapter (5), and sealant (9). Screen (3) is above gutter (2). Screen (3)is supported by gutter (2). Gutter (2) is seated into gutter sealant(9).

I contemplate that sealant (9) be waterproof and flexible Silicone, butother materials are also suitable.

FIG. 8 shows a side view of housing (1 a), gutter (2), screen (3),support screws (4), adapter (5), and sealant (9). Screws (4) embeddedinto housing (1 a) supports in place gutter (2) and screen (3). Adapter(5) receives water from gutter (2).

FIG. 9 shows the front view of housing (1 a), screen (3), and adapter(5) installed.

FIG. 10 Shows side view of separator (1) embodiments, consisting ofhousing (1 a), gutter (2), domed screen (3 a), adapter (5), tube (6),adapter (7), tube insulation (8). In this embodiment domed screen (3 a)allows smaller gauge screen due to arch design for added strength.

I contemplate that the tube (6) of this embodiment be made of vinyl, butother materials are also suitable.

I contemplate that the tube (6) of this embodiment be sized ⅜″ ID by ½″OD, but other sizes are also suitable.

I contemplate that adapter (5) (7) be manufactured of plastic compoundwith ⅜″ MNPT threads at one end and the other being ⅜″ barbed receivingend, but other materials are also suitable.

FIG. 11 Shows side view of gutter (2) engaged with domed screen (3 a).In this embodiment, screen (3 a) is domed to maximize weight bearingqualities.

FIG. 12 Shows below view of gutter (2) engaged with screen (3 a). Inthis embodiment screen (3 a) is above gutter (2) and is supported bygutter (2).

FIG. 13 Shows front view of gutter (2) engaged with screen (3 a). Inthis embodiment, screen (3 a) is supported by gutter (2).

FIG. 14 shows rear view of gutter (2) engaged with screen (3 a). In thisembodiment, gutter (2) is reduced in size at rear to allow maximum airpassage.

FIG. 15 Shows front view of semi-curved gutter (2 a) engaged with screen(3 a). In this embodiment size and shape of gutter (2 a) allowsadditional air passage.

FIG. 16 Shows top view of gutter (2 a) engaged with domed screen (3 a).In this embodiment domed screen maximizes strength to minimize screenwire gauge for maximum air passage.

FIG. 17 Shows side view of gutter (2 a) engaged with screen (3 a) tomaximize air flow efficiency.

FIG. 18 This embodiment shows side view of radon mitigation system (200)with cap (24), support (170) and wall (180).

Shows side view of cap (24) engaged with exhaust pipe (160). Thisembodiment shows support (170) engaged with pipe (160) and wall (180).

Shows side view of connector (11) engaged with housing (1 a) and engagedwith elbow (150).

Shows side view of adapter (5) engaged with drain port (26 a) of housing(1 a).

Shows side view of drain port (26 a) of housing (1 a).

Shows side view of plug (12 a) engaged with port (25 a) of connector(11).

Shows side view of access port (25 a) of connector (11).

Shows side view of screen (3) of housing (11).

FIG. 19. This embodiment shows side view of housing (1 a).

Shows side view of connector (11) engaged with housing (1 a)

Shows side view of adapter (5) engaged with drain port (26) of plug(12).

Shows side view of plug (12) engaged with access port (25) of housing (1a).

I contemplate that plug (12) be sized and threaded with 1.25″-11.5 NPTthreads and has a square head installed with ⅜″ threads to mate with ⅜″threads of adapter (5) FIG. 24, but other materials are also suitable.

Shows side view of drain port (26) engaged with plug (12).

Shows side view of access port (25) of housing (1 a).

Shows side view of screen (3) within housing (1 a) below access port(25).

FIG. 20. This embodiment shows cross sectional view of housing (1 a).

Shows side view of sloped and flattened gutter (2 b) sloped to port (26a) above screen (3) within housing (1 a).

Shows side view of screen (3) below gutter (2 b) and below drain port(26 a).

Shows side view of connector (11) engaged with access port (25 a) andengaged with drain port (26 a). Connector (11) down-stream end slipsinto female up-stream hub of housing (1 a). Connector (11) up-stream endslips into female down-stream hub of elbow (150). Connector (11) ismanufactured PVC pipe of proper size to mate with housing (1 a) andelbow (150).

Shows side view of base (14) engaged with connector (11) and wall (15)by screw (13) to form a water channel (19) FIG. 22.

Shows cross sectional view of interior side wall (15) engaged with base(14) and connector (11) by screw (13). Base (14) and wall (15) ismanufactured PVC pipe of proper size and shape to form base (14) andwall (15). Shows side view of plug (12 a) engaged with access port (25a).

Shows side view of adapter (5) engaged with drain port (26 a) of housing(1 a) and into connector (11).

FIG. 21. This embodiment shows cross sectional view of housing (1 a).

Shows view of sloped and flattened gutter (2 b) sloped to access port(25) above screen (3) within housing (1 a).

Shows cross sectional view of screen (3) within housing (1 a).

Shows cross sectional view of screen (3) below gutter (2 b) and belowaccess port (25).

Shows cross sectional view of connector (11) down-stream end slips intofemale hub of housing (1 a). Connector (11) up-stream end slips intofemale hub of elbow (150). Connector (11) is manufactured PolyvinylChloride (PVC) pipe of proper size to mate with housing (1 a) and elbow(150).

Shows cross sectional view of base (14) engaged with connector (11) andwall (15) by screw (13) to form channel (19) FIG. 22.

Shows cross sectional view of interior side wall (15) engaged with base(14) and connector (11) by screw (13).

I contemplate that Base (14) and wall (15) is manufactured PolyvinylChloride (PVC) pipe of proper size and shape to form base (14) and wall(15), but other materials and sizes are also suitable.

Shows side view of plug (12) engaged in access port (25) of housing (1a) and connector (11).

Shows adapter (5) engaged with drain port (26) of plug (12).

Access port (25), plug (12), drain port (26) and adapter (5) combine toform a hollow channel to drain water by gravity from gutter (2 b) totube (6).

FIG. 22 This embodiment shows prospective view of housing (1 a) withembodiments 3, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20.

Test port (20) positioned in screen (3), within housing (1 a) is ofmultiply sizes to accept test probes. Screen (3) is located below wall(15), and below connector (11).

Wall (15) and base (14) attached to connector (11) with screw (13) toform water channel (19) above screen (3).

Above screen (3) within housing (1 a) access port (25) engages hollowplug (12). Hollow adapter (5) engages hollow drain port (26) of plug(12). Hollow tube (6) engages with adapter (5), which engages with plug(5), which engages drain port (26).

Access port (25), being open engages hollow plug (12) during normalsystem (200) operations. Plug (12) engages hollow adapter (5). Tube (6)engages adapter (5) to form a leak-proof water channel from housing (1a) to tube (6).

FIG. 23 This embodiment shows cross section view of plug (12 a) engagedwith connector (11). Plug (12 a) engages with connector (11) by matingthread (22) and thread (21). Mating threads (22) and (21) sealsconnector (11).

FIG. 24 This embodiment shows cross section view of threads (22) ofhollow plug (12) engaging threads (21) of housing (1 a) resulting in ahollow passageway. Hollow adapter (5) engages and seals to hollow plug(12) with screw threads, resulting in a hollow passageway. Tube (6)engages adapter (5) resulting in a hollow water tight passageway. Plug(12) and adapter (5) are hollow to allow water passage from housing (1a) to drain tube (6).

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the principles of thepresent embodiment may be readily adapted for use outside of the fieldof radon mitigation.

At present I believe that this embodiment operates most efficiently, butthe present embodiment can be further modified within the scope andspirit of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended tocover any variation, uses, or adaptation of the invention using itsgeneral principal. Further, this application is intended to cover suchdepartures from the present disclosure as come within known or customarypractices in the art to which this invention pertains.

OPERATION

Separator apparatus (1) of FIG. 1 and FIG. 10, is a means to protectradon fan (100) of radon mitigation system (200) from damage due tofalling foreign objects such as water, ice, critters and debris.

Separator apparatus (1) traps ice, critters and debris before reachingradon fan (100) and retains same in collection area (23) of separatorhousing (1 a)

Separator apparatus (1) intercepts water before reaching radon fan (100)and redirects same water around radon fan (100), channeling same waterto suction pipe (140).

Separator apparatus (1) including separator housing (1 a), gutter (2),(2 a), (2 b), screen (3), (3 a), support screws (4), receiving draintube adapter (5), drain tube (6), terminating drain tube adapter (7),drain tube insulation (8), waterproof sealant (9), male slip connector(11), threaded access port plug (12), (12 a), trough support screw (13),trough base (14), trough interior wall (15), trough channel (19), testport (20), access port threads (21), access port plug threads (22),collection area (23), drain port (26), (26 a), access port (25), (25 a).

The separator (1) prevents foreign objects, such as ice, water,critters, debris from entering fan (100) by catching and holding solidforeign objects in the collection area (23). Additionally separator (1)catches and redirects water around fan (100) by channel (19) and gutter(2), 2 a), (2 b)) to tube (6), which empties into suction pipe (140).

Radon mitigation system (200) including separator apparatus (1), radonfan (100), upper flexible fan connector (110), lower flexible fanconnector (120), suction pipe elbow (130), suction pipe (140), exhaustpipe elbow (150), exhaust pipe (160), critter screen cap (24), exhaustpipe support brace (170), and building wall (180).

Housing (1 a) is an additional embodiment of separator (1). Housing (1a) of separator (1) being open at both entrance end and exit end, is anair passage-way receiving radon laced air from below and expelling thesame radon laced air upward through through elbow (150) and into pipe(160) and out of cap (24). Housing (1 a) is installed upstream ofconnector (110) and downstream elbow (150).

I contemplate that housing (1 a) be made of a Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)typical schedule 40 or schedule 20 plumbing pipe elbow with 4″ diameterhollow opening with 45 degree or 90 degree bend, but other materials,sizes and bend angles are also suitable.

Gutter (2) of FIG. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 is anadditional embodiment of separator (1), which is shaped to allow maximumair passage with minimum air resistance and a form to direct water flowtowards drain port (26), (26 a). Gutter (2), is located within housing(1 a).

I contemplate that gutter (2) be configured to be elliptical cone shape,but other shapes are also suitable.

Gutter (2 a) of FIG. 15, 16 17, is an additional embodiment of separator(1), shaped to allow maximum air passage with minimum air resistance anda means to direct water flow towards port (26) and (26 a). Gutter (2 a)is located within housing (1 a).

I contemplate that gutter (2 a) is configured in a partial circular domeshape to engage circular dome shape screen (3 a), but other shapes arealso suitable.

Gutter (2 b) of FIG. 20, 21 is an additional embodiment of separator(1), shaped to allow maximum air passage with minimum air resistance anda means to direct water flow towards port (26) (26 a).

Gutter (2 b) is attached to screen (3) at the outer edge of screen (3).Gutter (2 b) receives water from diversion trough (19) FIG. 22. Gutter(2 b) is located within separator housing (1 a).

I contemplate gutter (2 b) to be configured in a flattened shape,installed with a slant towards port (26), (26 a), but other shapes andangles are also suitable.

I contemplate that gutter (2), (2 a) and (2 b) be made of aluminum orplastic, but other materials are also suitable.

I contemplate that gutter (2) (2 a) and (2 b) be sized and positioned tominimize air resistance and maximize water collection within housing (1a).

Screen (3) of FIGS. 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22 is anadditional embodiment of separator (1). Screen (3) prevents fallingforeign objects from entering fan (100). Screen (3) is a flatconfiguration and conforms to the interior cylinder shaped wall ofhousing (1 a).

Screen (3) mesh is sized to allow maximum air passage and preventfalling foreign objects from entering fan (100)

Screen (3) and gutter (2) FIG. 8, engage with housing (1 a). Screen (3)is supported within housing (1 a) by screws (4) FIG. 8.

Screen (3) and gutter (2) FIG. 7, 8 are seated into sealant (9) to forma secure and waterproof bond with separator housing (1 a).

I contemplate that screen (3), (3 a) be made of stainless steel orgalvanized steel, but other materials are also suitable.

I contemplate screen (3) (3 a) be of 16 gage with 0.50 inch openings,but other materials and sizes are also suitable.

Screws (4) FIG. 8, are an additional embodiment of separator (1). Screws(4) are installed into housing (1 a) to support combinations of screen(3), (3 a) and gutter (2), (2 a), (2 b). Screws (4) FIG. 8 are installedand secured into housing (1 a) wall.

I contemplate that screws (4) FIG. 8 be constructed of stainless steelor zinc plated and sized 8×1¼″, but other materials and sizes are alsosuitable.

Adapter (5) FIG. 20, 21. Is an additional embodiment of separator (1).

Adapter (5) is threaded on the entrance end to mate with threads of port(26 a) of housing (1 a) FIG. 20.

Additionally, adapter (5) is threaded on the entrance end to mate withthreads installed in the square head of plug (12) FIG. 21.

Adapter (5) mates with tube (6) on the exit end FIG. 20, 21.

Adapter (5) is a hollow water passageway from housing (1 a) to tube (6),FIG. 20. Adapter (5) is a hollow passageway from plug (12) to tube (6),FIG. 21.

I contemplate that adapter (5) and adapter (7) be constructed ofpolyutherene ⅜″ MNPT threaded screw importing end by ⅜″ barb exportingend, but other materials and sizes are also suitable.

Tube (6) FIG. 1, 10, 18, 19, 20, 21 is an additional embodiment ofseparator (1). Entrance end of tube (6) mates with barbed exit end ofadapter (5) and is a water passageway from adapter (5) to adapter (7)FIG. 1.

I contemplate that tube (6) be constructed of vinyl tubing, ½″ OD×⅜″ ID,but other materials and sizes are also suitable.

Adapter (7). FIG. 1, 10, 18, 19. Is an additional embodiment ofseparator (1).

Adapter (7) mates with exit end of tube (6) and is a hollow non-leakingwater passageway from tube (6). Adapter (7) mates with pipe (140).

I contemplate that adapter (7) is like adapter (5), but other materialsand sizes are also suitable.

Insulation (8), FIG. 1, 10, 18, 19. Is an additional embodiment ofseparator (1)

Insulation (8) surrounds tube (6) to insulate freezing temperatures fromentering tube (6).

I contemplate that insulation (8) be of materials commerciallyavailable.

Sealant (9) FIG. 7, 8 is an additional embodiment of separator (1).Sealant (9) applied inside housing (1 a) wall at gutter (2), (2 a), (2b) and screen (3), (3 a) junction. Sealant (9) engages and seals gutter(2) and edge of screen (3) and attaches to inside wall of housing (1 a)at point of contact of gutter (2) , (2 a), (2 b) and screen (3), (3 a)and resting on screws (4).

I contemplate that sealant (9) be waterproof Silicone, but othermaterials are also suitable.

Connector (11) FIG. 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 is an additional embodiment ofseparator (1). Connector (11) is a cylindrical hollow Polyvinyl Chloride(PVC) pipe that inserts and engages its down-stream end into theup-stream female hub of housing (1 a) to become engaged as one.Connector (11) inserts its up-stream end into the down-stream female hubof elbow (150).

Connector (11) is a hollow interior passageway for radon laced air toflow through system (200). Down-stream section of connector (11) FIG.21, is installed within housing (1 a) exit hub to be as one.

Up-stream section of connector (11) FIG. 21 is installed withindown-stream hub of elbow (150)

Down-stream portion of connector (11) FIG. 20 and up-stream housing (1a) hub combine to receive drain port (26 a) FIG. 20 and access port (25)FIG. 21.

Up-stream portion of connector (11) FIG. 20 includes access port (25 a).

Connector (11) FIG. 21, is installed within and engaged with housing (1a) exit hub to be as one.

Connector (11) and housing (1 a) FIG. 21 receives access port (25).

The inside wall of up-stream portion of connector (11) FIG. 20, 21, 22serves as the outside wall of channel (19) FIG. 22.

Connector (11) is cemented to establish a watertight engagement toup-stream hub of housing (1 a). Connector (11) is cemented todown-stream hub of elbow (150).

I contemplate the connector (11) being 4″ diameter, schedule 40 hollowinterior Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pipe, but other sizes and materialsare suitable.

Plug (12) FIG. 19, 21, 22, 23 is an additional embodiment of separator(1).

Plug (12) screws into port (26) of housing (1 a) by mating threads (21)(22) FIG. 24. Plug (12) is a removable device that engages port (26) ofhousing (1 a) during operation of system (200).

During system (200) operation, plug (12) is fully engaged into port(26), resulting in an airtight seal of port (26) within housing (1 a).

Plug (12) engaged by adapter (5) FIG. 19, 21, 22 is an additionalembodiment of separator (1). Plug (12) square turning head withinstalled threads to accept drain adapter (5) FIG. 24.

I contemplate that plug (12) be manufactured of plastic and be 1.25″diameter-11.5 NPT threads with square turning head, but other materials,sizes and are also suitable.

Plug (12 a) FIG. 20 is an additional embodiment of separator (1). Plug(12 a) screws into port (25 a) within connector (11) by mating withthreads (21), (22) FIG. 23. Plug (12 a) is a removable device thatengages with port (25 a) of connector (11) during operation of system(200).

During system (200) operation, plug (12 a) is fully engaged into port(25 a), resulting in an airtight seal of port (25 a) within connector(11).

I contemplate that plug (12 a) be made of plastic and be 1.25″diameter-11.5 NPT threaded with square turning head, but othermaterials, sizes are also suitable.

Screw (13) FIG. 20, 21, 22 is an additional embodiment of separator (1).

Screw (13) connects base (14) and interior wall (15) to connector (11).This assembly forms channel (19) which receives water that wouldotherwise drain into radon fan (100) and directs same water towardsgutter (2),(2 a) (2 b), which directs same water to port (26 a) (26).Base (14) additionally is the floor of channel (19).

Base (14) is a spacer between connector (11) and interior side wall(15), additionally base (14) is the floor of channel (19). Interior sidewall (15) as attached to base (14) is inside side wall of channel (19).Channel (19) connection joints between connector (11), base (14) andinterior side wall (15) are sealed to prevent water leakage from channel(19).

Channel (19) FIG. 22 is an additional embodiment of separator (1).Channel (19), comprised of interior wall (15) attached to base (14)which is attached to connector (11) by screw (13). Channel (19)redirects water towards gutter (2), (2 a) (2 b).

I contemplate that interior wall (15) and base (14) of this embodimentbe manufactured of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), but other materials arealso suitable.

Test port (20) FIG. 22 is an additional embodiment of separator (1).Port (20) is an opening of screen (3) to accommodate testing probeequipment for measuring system (200) performance. Test port (20) isaccessed with plug (12) removed from access port (25) FIG. 22, which isa passageway for testing equipment to enter housing (1 a).

Test port (20) is accessed with plug (12 a) removed from port (25 a)FIG. 20, which is a passageway for testing equipment to enter connector(11).

Thread (21) FIG. 23 is an additional embodiment of separator (1). Thread(21) is installed within connector (11). Thread (21) mates thread (22)of plug (12). Thread (21) of connector (11) engage thread (22) of plug(12), rendering port (26) closed and sealed.

Additionally thread (21) is installed within housing (1 a) FIG. 24.Thread (21) of housing (1 a) mates thread (22) of plug (12).

Thread (22) of plug (12 a) FIG. 23 is an additional embodiment ofseparator (1). Plug (12 a) seals port (25 a) of connector (11) FIG. 20by mating thread (22) of plug (12 a) with thread (21) of port (25 a) ofconnector 11).

Connector (11) and port (25 a) being sealed by plug (12 a) by thread(21) mating thread (22) to produce an airtight connector (11).

Collection area (23) FIG. 22 is an additional embodiment of separator(1).

Screen (3) prevents foreign objects such as debris, critters, and icefrom entering fan (100). Foreign objects which are stopped from enteringfan (100) by screen (3) accumulate in the collection area (23) locatedup-stream of screen (3). Removing foreign objects from collection area(23) is accomplished by unscrewing and removing plug (12) from port (25)FIG. 21.

Port (25) is a passageway to enter collection area (23).

Additionally, removing foreign objects from collection area (23) isaccomplished by unscrewing and removing plug (12 a) from port (25 a) ofcollector (11) FIG. 20. Port (25 a) is a passageway to access collectionarea (23) for foreign object removal.

Access port (25) FIG. 19, 21, 22 is an additional embodiment ofseparator (1). Port (25) is an open passageway to receive water directedfrom gutter (2), (2 a), (2 b) of the housing (1 a). Port (25) is an openpassageway to port plug (12).

Drain port (26) FIG. 19, 21, 22 is an additional embodiment of separator(1). Port (26) is a threaded opening located within the square head ofplug (12). Drain port (26) receives adapter (5) by adapter (5) threads.

Access port (25 a) FIG. 18, 20 is an additional embodiment of separator(1).

Port (25 a) is a threaded open passageway of connector (11). Port (25 a)is an open passageway into connector (11). Port (25 a) screw threadsmate with plug (12 a) to be substantially air-tight.

Port (25 a) serves as a means to remove foreign objects from collectionarea (23).

Drain port (26 a) FIG. 18, 20 is an additional embodiment of separator(1).

Threaded port (26 a) is an open waterway of housing (1 a). Port (26 a)within housing (1 a) engages adapter (5).

Port (26 a) is an open waterway to receive water from gutter (2 b) FIG.20 and channel same water into adapter (5), to be exported into draintube (6).

Port (26 a) engages with adapter (5) with mating threads.

I contemplate that port (26 a) thread mate with adapter (5) thread, butother sizes are also suitable.

CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE

Thus the reader will see that at least one embodiment of the separatorprovides a greater level of damage protection for a radon mitigationsystem and can be efficiently installed by those in the radon mitigationinstallation trade.

While my above description contains much specificity, these should notbe construed as limitations on the scope, but rather as anexemplification of one or several preferred embodiment thereof. Manyother variations are possible. For example the gutter can have othershapes, such as domed, flattened, circular, oval, elliptical, andconical. Another example is the screen can have other shapes, such asdomed, flattened, circular, oval, elliptical, and conical.

Multiply materials, sizes and designs of the embodiments are possible.

Accordingly, the scope should be determined not by the embodimentsillustrated, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

1. An apparatus for preventing destructive objects and fluids fromentering a radon fan.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein deviceprevents water, debris, critters and ice from entering a radon fan wheninstalled as a radon mitigation system.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2further including a housing comprising means to prevent objects fromentering a radon fan when installed as in a radon mitigation system. 4.The apparatus of claim 3 further including air passage through thehousing interior passageway.
 5. The housing of claim 3 further includingdiversion means to catch water and redirect same water to exit thehousing.
 6. The housing of claim 3 further including filtering means toprevent debris larger then screen openings from entering the radon fan.7. The filtering means of claim 5 further including openings to allowair passage.
 8. The housing of claim 3 further including filtering meansto prevent critters from entering the radon fan.
 9. The housing of claim3 further including filtering means to prevent ice from entering theradon fan.
 10. The housing of claim 3 further including filtering meansto allow radon mitigation system analysis.
 11. The housing of claim 3further including hollow pipe with angled bends open at two ends. 12.The housing of claim 10 further including plumbing pipe elbow withstraight or angled bends.
 13. The housing of claim 4 further includingdrain opening to allow channeled water to exit housing to bypass radonfan.
 14. The housing of claim 4 further including conduit to channelwater from the housing drain opening to bypass the radon fan andterminate down-stream of the radon fan.
 15. The diversion of claim 4further including water channeling means within housing to direct samewater out through housing drain opening.
 16. The housing of claim 3further including access opening to remove debris or critters that wereprevented by filter from entering the radon fan.
 17. The housing ofclaim 3 further including a containment area holding accumulated debrisand critters that do not pass through filtering.
 18. The access openingof claim 11 further including removable closure device to seal accessopening.